Yesterday, the Philadelphia Police Department announced they will suspend with the intent to dismiss, the police officer who shot 12-year-old Thomas Siderio on March 1, 2022. While the death of a child under any circumstances is tragic, this shooting has saddened and frustrated many in the community, and the search for answers continues. While many questions remain about the incident, and many details have not yet been released, the Police Advisory Commission supports PPD’s decision to take decisive action after a careful evaluation of existing evidence.

Transparency and accountability are of utmost importance whenever a civilian dies at the hands of a police officer. When information is slow to be released to the public, it can lead to speculation and supposition.  Accountability and justice can only be achieved when all the facts are clearly established and transparently related. However, thorough investigations take time. Any release of information must be done in a way that ensures any future disciplinary actions or possible criminal cases are not jeopardized. Transparency must result in justice and not at the cost of it.

The PAC is closely monitoring the investigation and understands that it can be difficult to trust a process that is unseen. Commissioner Outlaw’s decision yesterday signals that this investigation is progressing thoughtfully and efficiently. The PAC is hopeful that justice will prevail and will continue to monitor the investigation and advocate for transparency and accountability.